Setúbal is a city located on the Atlantic coast in the southwest of Portugal, on the north bank of the estuary of the Sado River. Due to its proximity to Lisbon, it has great economic and trade value, with the port and military industry playing an important role in the city. Situated in a coastal area, the city was once a small fishing village and has developed over the years to become the third largest port in Portugal.

Most of the ancient buildings in the old town of Setúbal were destroyed by the earthquake in 1755, but there are still Roman ruins nearby. The Church of Jesus is an early Manueline-style building, with gorgeous columns made of marble from the Arabida Mountain range, featuring spiral patterns. The church’s cloister has been converted into a city museum, housing Portuguese paintings from the 15th and 16th centuries, Flemish tapestries and paintings, 17th-century jewelry, and artifacts unearthed in the outskirts of Setúbal. There is a nature reserve near Setúbal, the Sado Estuary Nature Reserve, where you can see dolphins, herons, flamingos, and storks in their natural habitat. The unique Arrábida Natural Park offers the chance to observe some rare species.

The beautiful beaches of Setúbal are definitely worth visiting, including Figueirinha Beach, Galápos Beach, and Albarquel Beach. Additionally, taking a ferry to the opposite bank of the Sado River is a convenient way to reach beaches and a golf course about 18 kilometers from the Troia Peninsula, a great destination for sports and recreation.

Setúbal

Reasons to Visit: The third largest port city in Portugal

Continent: Europe

Country: Portugal

Province/State: Setúbal District

City: Setúbal